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You enter. Black cloaks hang from pegs in the entrance portico. The tavern is packed with tables and chairs, with narrow paths meandering between them. A bar stretches along one wall, under a balcony with a staircase leading up to it. Another balcony overhangs another entrance to the east. All the windows are fitted with thick shutters and crossbars. A few people are huddled at a table near the front, but the rest of the taproom is mostl yempty, most likely due to the hour.
You are immediately greeted by the innkeeper as you enter. He is a tall, lean musclar man wearing a thick black cloak, with a beard just as black.
"Welcome to the Blue Water Inn," he says. A woman stands behind him; likely his, wife by the way she is dressed. "My name is Urwin Markitov, I run this place. What can I help you with?"
"We are here for food and shelter," Ireena says. "We may be staying a while."
"We also have some questions about the town, if you please," you add. "We are new here. Looking for safety, among... other things."
You are thinking of your sister Joannus, of course. She hasn't left your mind. Antonio told you at the Tser Pool that there was another Vistani camp outside Vallaki, and that they might have information on your sister. You will be hot on her trail as soon as you're certain Ireena is safe. And so far, this place is looking pretty good, save for your run-in with that strange noblewoman and the unfortunate circumstances surrounding it.
"Indeed," Urwin says. "Take a seat. I will be right over."
Urwin appears a few moments later with bowls hot soup and bread. He places them in front of you and gives you a nod.
"How much will this cost us?" you ask.
"Nothing," he says.
You are taken aback slightly. He's not going to ask for a favor like Ismark did, right?
"Free?" Ireena asks, clearly sharing your uncertainty.
"Yes, free! Unless you'd prefer not to eat it. This is a sanctuary, of sorts. We feed the hungry at no charge. However, if you're feeling generous, or want something tastier, a gold piece will get you two servings of wolf steak."
Amazed, you begin eating. You did not realize how hungry you had become, and you're almost finished before know it. It's unseasoned, and not the best tasting soup, but that scarcely matters - it's better than the rations you've relied on at least, which consist of dried jerky and nuts.
(cont.)
